Moraga

The area now known as Moraga was originally settled by the Saklan Native Americans. However, they were eventually overrun by the Spanish and Mexicans. In fact, the town took its name from Joaquin Moraga. He was related to Jose Joaquin Moraga. If you don’t recognize the name, he helped build the presidio of San Francisco and consider the founder of a pueblo, which eventually became San Jose. The town officially gained recognition as a city in November 1974.

When it was formed, Moraga combined the areas of Moraga Town, Rheem, and Rheem Valley. The town is located in Contra Costa County and has a population nearing 17,000 people. Surrounding it are the cities of Lafayette, Orinda, and Concord. Additionally, the citifies of Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Berkeley, and San Ramon are nearby.

Greatschools.org recognized Moraga in 2011 for being the best city to live and learn in. The city has five elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. However, many of the children also go to a nearby high school in Orinda as both schools are administered by the Acalanes Union High School District. Besides the public schools, Moraga is home to an excellent private college, Saint Mary’s College of California.

Many of the residents of Moraga visit the local shops and restaurants. However, they also visit neighboring towns to enjoy their activities and entertainment. For instance, there is the Lafayette Wine and Arts Festival, Blackhawk Food, Wine and Film Festival, and Lesher Center for Arts in Walnut Creek.

Overall, Moraga is a lovely town within the Bay Area and Contra Costa County.